Spinal Fracture: Signs to Take Seriously

Have you been experiencing persistent back pain lately? Before you brush it off as just another reminder that you’re getting older, stop. Spinal fractures are often overlooked or misdiagnosed, and they can have serious consequences if left untreated.

That means it’s important to be aware of the signs of spinal fracture — and it’s essential to take your symptoms seriously. David A. Wiles, MD, is an experienced neurosurgeon in Chattanooga, Tennessee, serving Bristol, Kingsport, and Johnson City. He specializes in spine care, and he’s here to help you get the diagnosis and treatment you need.

The signs and symptoms of spinal fracture

First things first: A fracture is a crack or break in a bone. A spinal fracture, in particular, refers to a crack or break in one or more of your vertebrae — the small bones that make up your spine.

Trauma, like a fall or car accident, can cause a spinal fracture. But more often than not, spinal fractures are the result of conditions like osteoporosis, which weaken your bones over time.

And although a broken bone sounds severe, not all spinal fractures cause immediate, severe pain. They can develop gradually and increase your risk of delayed diagnosis and treatment.

So, how can you learn to recognize a spinal fracture? Here are a few signs to take seriously.

Chronic back pain

One of the most common symptoms of a spinal fracture is persistent, localized back pain. The pain may worsen with movement or certain activities, and it may not improve with rest or over-the-counter pain medications.

Persistent back pain can have any number of possible causes — and it's essential to pay attention to the location and intensity of your back pain. Take note if it seems disproportionate to any recent injuries or activities, and make an appointment with a back specialist like Dr. Wiles.

Pain with movement

Spinal fractures can make movement painful, particularly when you bend forward, twist your torso, or lift objects. You might notice increased discomfort when performing everyday tasks like getting out of bed, bending down to tie your shoes, or reaching overhead.

Difficulty walking

Severe spinal fractures can impair your ability to walk or bear weight on your legs. If you experience difficulty walking, instability, or a loss of balance without any apparent cause, seek medical attention immediately because these could be signs of a serious spinal injury.

Loss of height

A compression fracture, which happens when a vertebra collapses or loses height, is a common type of spinal fracture. When a vertebra gets compressed, it can contribute to an overall loss in height or a stooped posture. Pay attention to any changes in your height or spinal curvature, as they could indicate underlying issues with your vertebrae.

Numbness or tingling

Sometimes, a spinal fracture compresses nearby nerves and contributes to nerve symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms, legs, or torso. These neurological symptoms can vary depending on the location and severity of the fracture, and they should never be ignored.

The importance of taking your symptoms seriously

Nearly 40% of American adults experience back pain. And since it’s so common, you might be tempted to write it off as an unavoidable side effect of aging. However, pain should always be taken seriously.

Spinal fractures can’t heal properly on their own, and spinal fractures that develop gradually or present with subtle symptoms can be challenging to diagnose. Unfortunately, ignoring or downplaying your symptoms can exacerbate the underlying injury and increase your risk of complications such as chronic pain, spinal deformity, or neurological deficits. 

Untreated spinal fractures may compromise the stability and integrity of your spine — but the good news is that seeking a diagnosis means you can start appropriate treatment. Spinal fractures are treatable, and Dr. Wiles works with you to develop a personalized care plan to meet your needs. 

Bracing, physical therapy, and surgical intervention may be options to help your spine heal properly and restore your strength and mobility. By recognizing the signs of a spinal fracture and seeking prompt medical evaluation, you can receive timely interventions to alleviate pain, prevent complications, and facilitate healing.

If you have any symptoms of spinal fracture, take them seriously. You can schedule a consultation with Dr. Wiles and our team at 423-459-9800 or request an appointment online today.